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GyroDb - A home for gyrodactylids on the web

The gyrodactylids are a diverse group of small (<1mm) parasitic worms, which are normally associated with bony fish. The species in this group are characterised by the presence of a ring of small hooks ('marginal hooks') and two large hooks ('hamuli') at the rear end of the parasite, which allow them to attach securely to the skin of their fish host.

These parasites also give birth to their young on the fish so that their numbers may increase very rapidly. The combination of feeding damage and high parasite numbers can injure the fish host or even kill it. You can learn more about them by visiting the section on biology

GyroDb provides a range of resources allowing scientists and non-scientists to learn more about this important parasite group and includes tools for the identification of Gyrodactylus species worldwide. The site also provides a contact point for people seeking more information on Gyrodactylus and related species.

If you find this site useful, please give due credit to the original authors for any data taken from GyroDb by use of the the main reference and by citing GyroDb itself: